Cryptographic part authentication embedded at binder jet
This technology embeds hidden identification markers directly inside metal parts during 3D printing by selectively applying binding agents to create regions of different porosity within the material. These internal signatures are invisible on the surface but detectable using standard non-destructive testing equipment such as X-ray or CT scanning. Because the signatures arise from the printing process itself rather than labels or surface markings, they cannot be removed or replicated without destroying the part. The approach works within existing binder jetting manufacturing workflows without requiring additional post-processing steps.
What you could build
A software and process licensing package for binder jetting manufacturers that encodes serialized or cryptographic identifiers into parts at print time, sold to aerospace OEMs, defense contractors, and industrial equipment makers who need tamper-proof part authentication.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense primes and aerospace suppliers concentrated in Northern Virginia and the Hampton Roads corridor—companies like Huntington Ingalls, Leidos, or Raytheon supply chain partners—would have direct interest in authenticated metal parts.
Readiness: Concept
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Kazi Moshiur Rahman, Christopher B. Williams
- Filed
- Patent pending — filed March 7, 2024
- Status
- Application
- Publication number
- US20240300017A1
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.